Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to intensify efforts against tax evasion and under-invoicing in all sectors, amid ongoing legal action against the trade of illicit cigarettes and non-duty-paid goods.

The prime minister issued these directives following a high-level meeting focused on the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). The meeting aimed to address obstacles in tax collection and reform the taxation system, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.

Proposed amendments to the Income Tax Ordinance and Federal Excise Act were discussed, intended to facilitate tax recovery without impacting compliant taxpayers and businesses. The prime minister emphasized that these amendments are designed to protect honest taxpayers and prevent undue harassment by FBR officials.

During the meeting, updates were provided on measures to combat tax evasion in various industries. The FBR is deploying digital monitoring systems, such as Track and Trace, to improve transparency and compliance.

The briefing revealed active measures against tax evasion in sectors including tobacco, cement, poultry, and sugar. The FBR has identified irregularities through video monitoring, and provinces have been authorized to seize illegal tobacco products. Additionally, a monitoring system for the poultry industry is under development.

Key participants in the meeting included Federal Ministers Azam Nazeer Tarar, Ahsan Iqbal, Muhammad Aurangzeb, the Chairman of the FBR, and other senior officials.